School Health

Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Coordinated School Health model has been expanded through a national partnership with ASCD and combined with the Whole Child Framework to form the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model. The WSCC model organizes school health into 10 components: 1) Health Education, 2) Physical Education, 3) Health Services, 4) Counseling, Psychological and Social Services, 5) Nutrition Services, 6) Staff Wellness, 7) Healthy Physical School Environment, 8) Healthy Social-Emotional School Climate and Culture, 9) Family Engagement, and 10) Community Involvement.

This framework is a systematic approach to improving the health and well-being of students and school staff. The model brings together school administrators, teachers, other staff, students, families, and community members to assess the school’s health policies, programs and practices using the CDC’s assessment tool: The School Health Index (SHI); priorities are identified and an action plan for improvement is created, implemented and evaluated for impact. Funded by the Maternal and Child Health Services Title V Block Grant, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health, Child and Adolescent Health Program small grants are competitively available to schools throughout the northern NJ region that includes the counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren counties. The grants are designed to create a healthier school environment and improve student and staff wellness by increasing opportunities for healthier lifestyle choices. By improving school health we anticipate enhancing student learning.

Meet The Center’s School Health Team:

AshleyLeBelle

School Health Specialist

Ashley graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a Dual Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Health Education and Health and Physical Education. Upon graduation Ashley worked within the education field for two years before joining the staff at The Center for Prevention and Counseling (CFPC) as a School Health Specialist. Ashley also creates and presents original and research based programs throughout schools in Sussex County, NJ as a member of The Center’s prevention team.

PamelaPastorino

School Health Specialist

Pamela graduated from Seton Hall University with her Bachelors of Science in Biology. Upon graduation Pamela went on to pursue her Master’s in Public Health in Urban Health Administration from Rutgers University. Pamela has worked under the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child initiative since its inception in 2010 and is currently working with the NJDOH to develop a statewide youth engagement plan.

Youth Leadership Camp Weekend

Our annual Youth Leadership Camp is a jam packed weekend including outdoor activities, leadership training opportunities, team building exercises and personal growth at the Fairview Lake YMCA Camp in Stillwater, NJ. Middle and high school students from an array of schools from Perth Amboy to Vernon Township are chosen to attend the three day-two night camp. Students participate in activities such as: archery, boating, tie dye, and small group training workshops led by a keynote speaker each year. With each group led by a returning camp alumni this weekend truly focuses on growth and bonding with students both as members of a team and individually as leaders. This dynamic reinforces the importance of being stakeholders in each other’s lives. One student shared “I loved how everyone cooperated and didn’t feel embarrassed to talk their hearts out”. With the help of returning campers (now enrolled in college), the YMCA camp staff, and adult chaperones the students feel safe and comfortable to open themselves up to experiences they may not have otherwise. One chaperone stated “the best part of the weekend is watching students step up and lead their peers. As well as watching former students volunteer their time to help current students. Some of these students are more involved now than they were when they were in high school and that shows true growth”. As the students load the buses and vehicles to head home each year it is clear to see the impression this weekend leaves on them written in the smiles across all of their faces and the final hugs they share with their new friends. “This was the most fun I have ever had!” “The only thing that would have made this weekend better was if it lasted forever”.

Parents as Champions for Healthy Schools

The Parents as Champions for Healthy Schools Training is a two-day workshop designed by the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) and facilitated by The Center for Prevention and Counseling’s School Health Specialists. During this workshop parents are trained on how to become champions for healthy schools by learning how health promotes achievement in school and life, understanding how their school district works, discovering the important role of parents in shaping school environments and acquiring the tools to make a difference in their schools. Throughout the training parents are given the tools needed to construct an appropriate action plan to address a specific need within their child’s school. They are then provided the information and guidance on how to apply for a $1,000 grant and present these proposals efficiently and effectively to their schools.
“It was great to share and learn from other parents. The information presented was timely and concise. Excellent Work! Thank you.” 2017 Parent Champion

About Sustainable Jersey

Sustainable Jersey is a nonprofit organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives to support communities as they pursue sustainability programs. By supporting community efforts to reduce waste, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and improve environmental equity, Sustainable Jersey is empowering communities to build a better world for future generations.

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To develop the capacities of adults and children to sustain healthy lifestyles by providing services designed to foster addiction-free lives, emotional wellness, financial stability and safe communities